Why haven’t I gotten my stimulus check?

The IRS’s stimulus have already been received by some 90 million people. Each check is worth $1,200 and can be used as one see fits. But some still have not received their checks.

As of April 17, the IRS has distributed 88.1 million stimulus checks worth $157.96 billion. Plans to put about 5 million checks in the mail for up to 20 weeks are already in the pipeline.

Here, we take a look at the causes of those delays and what can be done to speed up the process.

No Bank Account Information

It is estimated that about 6.5%–about 14 million–of American households do not have a bank account. If they want to get their stimulus checks quicker, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. is urging people to open bank accounts. After doing so, they can then submit their bank information to the IRS. This is especially important for people who don’t file tax returns for not making enough. For these non-filers, they will need to submit their account information through the IRS website.

You Earn a Lot

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act, or CARES, prioritizes individuals with incomes below $7,500, couples earning under $150,000, and $500 for each child 17 and under. The amount declines by $5 for evert $100 above those thresholds. Individuals who make over $99,000 and couples who make over $198,000 do not qualify.

Those who are in these higher income brackets can still benefit however next year as stimulus payments will act as an advance credit for the next tax season.

You May be Someone Else’s Dependent

Young adults claimed as a dependent by their parents will likely not receive stimulus checks. If you are 18, the IRS may have reviewed a 2018 return where you are still claimed as a dependent by your parents. You can still be eligible for a stimulus check in your 2019 return as the IRS only counts a dependent as those aged 17 and under.

Debt Collectors

The CARES Act cannot prevent debt collectors from seizing checks that come into a bank account. They can legally seize the amount deposited to satisfy debt obligations. To mitigate this, some governors from 10 states, including Washington and Illinois, have issued executive orders preventing private debt collectors from seizing checks. If you think debt collectors are on to your check, check your state laws and try cashing the check without depositing it into your bank account.

Your Immigration Status

The stimulus checks are being given to US citizens and certain categories of non-US citizens like “legal permanent residents”. Those with pending applications for a green card may still be getting a check, but not anytime soon as U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services field offices have yet to open.

We Can Help

If you need professional help with your stimulus check, our experienced tax experts can help guide you in the right direction. Contact us today at 818-452-2641 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation.